Becoming a resident requires a 10 per cent deposit of $25,000. and then 75 per cent of the person's disability pension goes towards the home maintenance, operational costs and food while the rest pays off their equity.

When they leave the property is sold to another person, and the seller gets back what they put in plus any capital growth.

Ms Bryan said she could not wait to make friends and swap her small bedroom for a spacious one that allows for a double bed.

Before hearing of Project Independence, her brother was certain she would be forced to live in public housing she would have minimal control over or a nursing home, which he did not believe was appropriate for her age.

But he grew emotional speaking of the social and mental benefits the independent living would bring Teresa.

"Teresa was always asking if she would get her own place when she moved to Canberra [after their father died] and whether she'll be able to make new friends."

"This will really be a whole new ball game for her and for our whole family."

Director of Project Independence Glenn Keys said he had been overwhelmed by the demand for the units since the first residents moved in to their own homes and was already oversubscribed for the next housing in Phillip."This Christmas will be the first time the residents have lived independently," he said.

"They are looking forward to what so many of us take for granted, and that is the simple pleasure of inviting over family and friends to their own place to celebrate the festive season."